Duchamp, Marcel. (1887–1968)
Duchamp on the Meaning of Art - An Important Autograph Letter
Autograph letter signed "Marcel Duchamp," dated January 7, 1968 with NY autograph address at the head "28 W. 10 / N.Y.C." answering an inquiry into the meaning of art. In English: "Dear Mr. Massey, If I am right, etymologically the word "art" comes from the Sanskrit and, according to some dictionaries, corresponds to the meaning of 'to do'. I believe it is 'to do' not 'to make'. That, I hope, will answer your letter of Nov. 8th '67. Sincerely yours." Black ink on thin paper, with tape stain slightly showing through from verso (tape longer present), verso toned from prior mounting, overall very fine. 5.75 x 7.75 inches (14.7 x 19.7 cm.). An important letter from the artist who famously questioned the creative function of the artist and the meaning of art as a form of making.Interestingly, in a slight variation of the understanding outlined here of the sanskrit root of the word "art," Duchamp told Pierre Cabanne in 1967 - the year prior to the present letter - that he was suspicious of claims that attributed some unique power of creation to the artist:
I don't believe in the creative function of the artist. He's a man like any other. It's his job to do certain things, but the businessman does certain things also, you understand? On the other hand the word 'art' interests me very much. If it comes from the Sanskrit, as I've heard, it signifies 'making.' Now everyone makes something, and those who make things on a canvas, with a frame, they're called artists. Formerly, they were called craftsmen, a term I prefer. We're all craftsmen, in civilian or military life. (Dialogues with Duchamp, p. 16)"
In both cases, Duchamp was probably referring to the ancient Indo-European root, ar, which meant to join or fit, this being the root of the Sanskrit word, ara, which signifies the spoke or radius of a wheel (among other things). The present letter is a powerful witness to the variety of ways in which Duchamp drew on Asian philosophies and practices to develop his liberating art praxis.
(18469)Autograph Letter Art & Design